Kimberly, ID
County: Twin Falls
History
Kimberly is a small city located in Twin Falls County, Idaho, United States. Its history dates back to the late 1800s when exploration and settlement were taking place in the region. The area initially attracted miners who were attempting to find gold and silver in the nearby hills. However, the potential for mining in the region didn't pan out as expected.
In 1904, the Twin Falls Land and Water Company brought a group of farmers to the Snake River Canyon area, including the land where Kimberly now stands. These farmers were seeking fertile lands to cultivate and grow crops. They developed an irrigation system using water diverted from the Snake River, which allowed for successful agricultural activities.
The town of Kimberly was officially founded on December 22, 1905. It was named after Peter L. Kimberly, a prominent figure and investor in the Twin Falls Land and Water Company. The town started as a small farming community, and its early growth was primarily driven by the success of the agricultural industry in the region.
In 1908, Kimberly established its first school, indicating the growth and development of the community. The town continued to flourish, especially with the establishment of the Kimberly Cooperative Association in 1916. This association brought together local farmers to collaborate on purchasing supplies and marketing their produce, promoting community development and economic prosperity.
Over the years, Kimberly sustained its agricultural focus with the cultivation of a variety of crops, including potatoes, sugar beets, corn, alfalfa, and grains. The construction of the Minidoka Dam in 1906 and the Milner Dam in 1905 provided additional irrigation resources, further supporting the town's agricultural growth.
In the mid-20th century, Kimberly experienced some setbacks due to economic challenges faced by the agricultural industry. However, the town managed to bounce back and diversify its economy. The development of the dairy industry, manufacturing companies, and retail businesses helped revive the local economy.
Today, Kimberly remains a small but thriving community. It is home to approximately 3,000 residents who continue to embrace the town's agricultural heritage while embracing modern developments. The city prides itself on a strong sense of community and hosts various events and festivals throughout the year to celebrate its history and culture.
Attractions
Bruneau Dunes State Park
Known for its unique sand dunes, visitors can hike, go horseback riding, picnic, and even sled down the dunes.
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
This site showcases numerous fossils from the Pliocene era, including the remains of saber-toothed cats, mastodons, and other ancient creatures.
Thousand Springs State Park
This scenic park offers beautiful waterfalls, hot springs, cliffs, and hiking trails. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, camping, and birdwatching.
Minidoka National Historic Site
This site commemorates the WWII internment camp where thousands of Japanese-Americans were forcibly relocated during the war.
Crystal Ice Cave
Located about 25 miles north of Kimberly, this unique cave offers guided tours to explore magnificent ice formations during the summer months.
Herrett Center for Arts and Science
A museum and planetarium located on the College of Southern Idaho campus, offering exhibits on art, anthropology, natural history, and astronomy.
Canyon Springs Golf Course
A popular destination for golf enthusiasts, this scenic course offers challenging holes, beautiful views, and a friendly atmosphere.
Twin Falls
Just a short drive from Kimberly, this famous waterfall plunges 212 feet into the Snake River Canyon, providing a stunning natural spectacle.
Perrine Bridge
This iconic bridge offers panoramic views of the Snake River and is a popular spot for base jumping and bungee jumping activities.
Shoshone Falls
Often referred to as the "Niagara of the West," these powerful waterfalls are higher than Niagara Falls and offer breathtaking views and recreational areas for picnics and hiking.
Climate
Kimberly, Idaho has a semi-arid climate. The region experiences warm summers and cold winters. Summers in Kimberly are hot and dry with average temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (29-35 degrees Celsius). July is the hottest month in Kimberly.
Winters are relatively cold, with average temperatures ranging from the high 30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (3-6 degrees Celsius). December is the coldest month, with occasional sub-freezing temperatures. Snowfall is common during the winter months, bringing an average of around 14 inches (36 cm) of snow per year.
Spring and autumn in Kimberly are generally mild, with temperatures gradually transitioning between the extremes of summer and winter.
Precipitation is relatively low throughout the year, with an average of approximately 10 inches (25 cm) of rainfall annually. Most of the precipitation occurs during the late spring and early summer months. The region is known for its sunny weather, with around 225 sunny days per year.
Kimberly is located in the Snake River Plain, surrounded by mountains, which influences its climate. The area is subject to occasional strong winds, especially during the spring season.
Overall, Kimberly, Idaho enjoys a semi-arid climate with hot summers, cold winters, and low precipitation throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Kimberly, ID is a small city located in Twin Falls County in southern Idaho. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere, friendly community, and close proximity to outdoor recreational activities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods within Kimberly:
Downtown Kimberly
The heart of the city, Downtown Kimberly, offers a charming and historic feel. It is home to local businesses, restaurants, and shops. It provides a small-town vibe and has a strong sense of community.
River Grove
Located close to the Snake River, River Grove is a neighborhood known for its natural beauty and picturesque surroundings. Residents can enjoy scenic views, access to fishing spots, and recreational activities like biking or hiking along the river.
Kimberly Heights
Situated on the eastern edge of Kimberly, Kimberly Heights offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The neighborhood consists of single-family homes and provides a quiet suburban lifestyle. It is known for its spacious properties and family-friendly environment.
Glenn Raley Park
This neighborhood is named after the adjacent Glenn Raley Park, which provides a great area for outdoor activities, including walking trails, picnic spots, and a playground. The neighborhood consists of a mix of residential properties, from single-family homes to apartments.
Lakeside
Located near Miracle Hot Springs, Lakeside is known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful views. The neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a rural setting with access to natural attractions, such as hot springs, fishing spots, and wildlife.
Overall, Kimberly offers a range of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles, from historic downtown living to suburban tranquility and natural beauty. It is a close-knit community that values its residents and promotes a high quality of life.